Sunday, December 16, 2012

Mike's Magical Land

I took a different route into town the other day. I'll probably be taking that route often during the next couple of weeks.My friend and classmate Mike Rosenberger has created a magical holiday scene beyond anything I've ever seen in this area.After my first drive-by, I resolved to come back again with my camera.Yesterday afternoon seemed like a good time to do that. I must say that taking time to really absorb Mike's creation turned into a spirit lifter for me.After the events and aftermath of Friday's horrific massacre in Connecticut, this colorful wonderland between the two Shingle Mill Roads east of Sandpoint can do so much to remind us of the generous and genuinely wonderful hearts that exist in this country.Mike Rosenberger owns one of those hearts. I have always admired him for his tenacity, his zest for life and the hard work he puts in as a professional. Mike owns North Idaho Steam Clearning.He also has a wonderful family. I had the honor of working with his daughter Tasha as a 4-H'er and as an English student.

Tasha has inherited her father's work ethic and vision. She and her husband own the Loading Dock and the Pita Pit in downtown Sandpoint.These folks have never been afraid to put in the time necessary for a job well done.Mike's display in his yard exemplifies that very point in a delightful way.Seven days----that's how long it takes him to put up the display, which includes 28 blow-ups.Mike told me to be sure to come back after dark. I did. After watching that phenomenal Gonzaga victory at the Battle in Seattle last night on TV, I took my sisters, their two pups and my daughter-in-law Debbie for a mystery drive, of sortWe drove through Selle and turned onto West Shingle Mill Road. No need to tell them we had reached our destination. The scene at night is beyond magical and such a therapeutic treat for any heavy heart during this holiday season.Thank you, Mike, for being your wonderful self and for providing such a gift to the community.